Government of Canada Invests in Upgraded Water System for Cowichan Tribes

COWICHAN TRIBES, BC, July 28, 2015 The Honourable John Duncan, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North, was on hand today representing the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, to congratulate the Cowichan Tribes on the completion of water system upgrades that will enhance the quality and quantity of drinking water and provide more reliable fire protection for their band members.

In 2014, the Government of Canada invested $2.3 million to support the project, which included a connection to the City of Duncan's water supply, the construction of a chlorination booster system and the installation of approximately 1,400 metres of water supply lines.

Between 2006 and 2014, the Government of Canada invested over $3 billion to support First Nation communities in managing their water and wastewater infrastructure. These expenditures are part of a comprehensive long-term plan to improve drinking water and wastewater systems on First Nation lands founded on four pillars: enhanced capacity building and operator training; enforceable standards and protocols; infrastructure investments; and, protection of public health.

Quick Facts

The Cowichan Tribes has a registered onreserve population of 1,208 and is located in Duncan, British Columbia.

Funding to upgrade Cowichan Tribes' Wilson/Trestle Road water system came from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada's First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan.

Economic Action Plan 2014 committed $323.4 million over two years, beginning in 2014-2015, to improve water and wastewater infrastructure in First Nation communities.

Quotes

"Our Government continues to take actions that improve the health and quality of life of First Nations. That's why we made a key investment in the upgrade of the Cowichan First Nation's water system that will benefit the community for years to come. This project is a clear demonstration on our commitment to continue working with our First Nations partners to create the conditions for stronger, healthier, more self-sufficient communities."

John DuncanMinister of State and Chief Government Whip and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North

"This has been an ongoing project for at least 35 years and it's now complete. The completion of this project is a good step in bringing safe services to our community members."

For further information: Emily Hillstrom, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, 819-953-1160; You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds or e-mail. For more information or to subscribe, visit www.aandc.gc.ca/subscriptions.